Method for operating a printing device, printing device, and software product

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for operating a printing device and a printing device suitable for performing such a method, and in particular to a method for operating a printing device that includes a pagewidth curing array and that is capable of operating in at least a gloss mode and a matte mode.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for operating a printing device and a printing device suitable for performing such a method, and in particular to a method for operating a printing device that includes a pagewidth curing array and that is capable of operating in at least a gloss mode and a matte mode. [Background technology]

[0002] Methods for operating a printing device with radiation-curable inks are known in the art and generally involve applying the radiation-curable ink onto a recording medium, for example, by ejecting droplets of the ink using an inkjet printer.

[0003] After the ink has been applied onto the recording medium, the ink is hardened by irradiating the ink using a curing unit configured to emit a suitable radiation source, such as UV radiation, when in operation. The curing unit may be a page-wide curing array. An example of a printing device having a page-wide curing array is disclosed in EP 3481640.

[0004] An alternative to a page-width curing array is a scanning curing array. An example of a printing device including scanning curing is disclosed in EP 3038837. Using a page-width array has several advantages over using a scanning curing unit. A page-width array can irradiate the entire width of the recording medium, while a scanning curing unit irradiates only a portion of the width of the recording medium. Therefore, a page-width curing array can irradiate the ink applied to the recording medium for a longer period of time, thereby providing a higher radiation dose to the ink, which can result in improved curing. Furthermore, the scanning curing unit needs to be moved in a reciprocating motion in the scanning direction. Appropriate drive means are required, which increases the cost and complexity of the printing device. Furthermore, the movement of the scanning curing unit can cause vibrations in the system.

[0005] On the other hand, a scanning curing unit can offer additional possibilities compared to page-wide arrays known from the prior art. EP 3890985 describes a printer with a scanning curing array and a corresponding method, whereby printing can be performed in glossy mode, matte mode, and mixed matte-gloss mode by controlling the scanning curing unit and the printhead carriage. However, the described method is not suitable for use in a printer with a page-wide curing array. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 3481640 [Patent Document 2] European Patent Application Publication No. 3038837 [Patent Document 3] European Patent Application Publication No. 3890985 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Therefore, a need exists to have a printer and corresponding method of operation suitable for operating in multiple modes, including gloss and matte modes.

[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide such a method.

[0009] Another object of the invention is to provide a printing apparatus suitable for carrying out such a method. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The objects of the present invention are realized in a method for operating a printing device, the printing being operable in a number of modes, the printing device comprising: · a page-width curing array configured to emit radiation when operated; · Scanning print unit; · Media support for supporting recording media; · a first mirror element configured, in operation, to receive radiation from the pagewidth curing array and to reflect the radiation in a reflection direction, the reflection direction being dependent on an operating mode of the printing device; a second mirror element configured, in operation, to receive radiation from the first mirror element in at least one operating mode of the printer; The method includes: determining an operating mode of the printer, the printer being operable in at least a gloss mode and a matte mode; controlling a scanning print unit to deposit radiation curable ink onto the recording medium; controlling a pagewidth curing array to emit radiation; controlling the first mirror elements and the second mirror elements based on the determined operating mode of the printer to selectively receive and reflect radiation by controlling at least one of translational and rotational movement of at least one of the page-width array, the first mirror elements, and the second mirror elements. Includes:

[0011] The method may be performed using a printing device. The printing device may also be referred to as a printer. The printer may be configured to apply the radiation curable fluid during a printing operation. The radiation curable fluid may be a radiation curable inkjet ink, such as a UV curable inkjet ink, e.g., a UV gel ink. Suitable types of radiation curable inkjet inks, including UV curable inkjet inks, are known in the art. Preferably, the printer may be an inkjet printer configured to apply ink onto a recording medium by ejecting droplets of the ink onto the recording medium in a predetermined pattern to form an image.

[0012] The printing device includes a scanning print unit configured to deposit a predetermined pattern of radiation-curable fluid onto a recording medium during operation. The scanning print unit may be an inkjet printhead configured to eject ink onto the recording medium during operation. The printhead may be, for example, a thermal inkjet printhead or a piezoelectric inkjet printhead. The printer may include multiple inkjet printheads. One type or color of ink may be used to form the image; however, alternatively, multiple types and / or colors of ink may be used. Cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink may be used to form the image. Additionally, one or more of white ink, brown ink, gray ink, light magenta, light cyan, red, green, orange, and purple ink may be used. Additionally, one or more of a primer composition, an overcoat composition, and a metallic ink may be used. The scanning print unit may be configured to move back and forth in a scanning direction during operation. The scanning direction may be perpendicular to the media transport direction.

[0013] The printing device may further comprise a media support. The media support may be configured to support the recording medium during operation. Optionally, the recording medium can be moved in a media transport direction. The media support may comprise a flat table. Optionally, the media support may comprise an endless belt. The media support may comprise holes for applying underpressure. The application of underpressure can secure the recording medium to the media support.

[0014] Optionally, the printing device may include a media transport unit, which may be configured to move the recording medium relative to the printer in a media transport direction during operation.

[0015] The printing apparatus further includes a pagewide curing array. The pagewide curing array is configured, in operation, to irradiate a recording medium supplied with a radiation-curable fluid. Irradiating the radiation-curable fluid can cause a chemical reaction in the radiation-curable fluid, thereby hardening or pre-curing the fluid. The pagewide array can extend in a first direction, which is substantially perpendicular to a relative recording medium transport direction. The recording medium can move relative to the scanning print unit. The relative movement is achieved by moving at least one of the recording medium and the print unit. The direction of relative movement of the print unit and the recording medium is the recording medium transport direction.

[0016] The printer can include a first mirror element configured, in operation, to receive radiation from the pagewide curing array and reflect the radiation in a reflection direction that depends on an operating mode of the printing device. The mirror element can include at least one reflective surface for receiving radiation emitted by the pagewide curing array and reflecting said radiation. The printer can include a second mirror element configured, in operation, to receive radiation from the first mirror element in at least one operating mode of the printer. The mirror element can include at least one reflective surface for receiving radiation emitted by the pagewide curing array and reflecting said radiation depending on the operating mode of the printer.

[0017] The method may include determining an operating mode of the printer, the printer being operable in at least a gloss mode and a matte mode. In the gloss mode, the printer may be configured to print images on recording media having a high gloss. In the matte mode, the printer may be configured to print images on recording media having a low gloss. Images with a low gloss are also referred to as matte images. The operating mode of the printer may be determined by an operator. Alternatively, the operating mode may be determined by a control unit of the printer. The operating mode may be determined based on a predetermined set of parameters, for example, using an algorithm.

[0018] The gloss level of an image can be affected by the timing between the deposition of ink on a recording medium and the exposure of the ink deposited on the recording medium to radiation.

[0019] The method can further include controlling a scanning print unit to deposit the radiation-curable ink onto the recording medium. The scanning print unit can deposit a predetermined amount of ink onto the recording medium, thereby forming an image on the recording medium. Only one type of ink can be deposited, or alternatively, multiple different inks can be deposited in a predetermined pattern. For example, different colored inks can be applied in a predetermined pattern to form a multi-colored image.

[0020] The method may further include controlling the pagewide curing array to emit radiation. The pagewide curing array may emit radiation. The radiation may be of a type suitable for inducing a polymerization reaction in the ink, thereby hardening the ink. Controlling the pagewide curing array may include, for example, switching (individual units of) the pagewide curing array on or off, adjusting the relative position and / or orientation of the pagewide curing array with respect to other parts of the printer, such as, but not limited to, the media support, the scanning print unit, the first mirror element, and the second mirror element.

[0021] The method may further include controlling the first and second mirror elements based on the determined operating mode of the printer to selectively receive and reflect radiation by controlling at least one of the translational and rotational movements of at least one of the page-wide array, the first mirror elements, and the second mirror elements. Controlling at least one of the translational and rotational movements of at least one of the page-wide array, the first mirror elements, and the second mirror elements may control the time interval between depositing locally deposited ink on the recording medium and curing the ink. Controlling this time interval may control the glossiness of the print. If the time interval is short, preferably less than 1 second, the image may be matte. If the time interval is long, preferably greater than 1 second, more preferably greater than 10 seconds, the image may be glossy.

[0022] The page-wide array, the first mirror element and / or the second mirror element may be moved using any suitable means known to those skilled in the art.

[0023] In one embodiment, in gloss mode, the reflection direction is in the recording medium transport direction from the first mirror element towards an area of ​​the recording medium positioned downstream of the scanning print unit.

[0024] In the gloss mode, the radiation emitted by the pagewidth curing array may be reflected by the first mirror element in a reflective direction. In the gloss mode, the reflective direction may be from the first mirror element toward an area of ​​the recording medium positioned downstream of the scanning print unit in the recording medium transport direction. Thus, in the gloss mode, the radiation emitted by the pagewidth array is reflected by the first mirror element to a location downstream of the scanning print unit in the recording medium transport direction. Thus, in the gloss mode, the time interval between depositing the ink and irradiating the ink may be relatively long, thereby resulting in a glossy image.

[0025] In one embodiment, in matte mode, the reflection direction is from the first mirror element to the second mirror element, and radiation received by the second mirror element is reflected towards an area of ​​the recording medium that is part of the current swath.

[0026] In the matte mode, the reflection direction can be from the first mirror element to the second mirror element, and the radiation received by the second mirror element is reflected toward an area of ​​the recording medium that is part of the current swath. In the matte mode, the reflection direction can be from the first mirror element to the second mirror element. The second mirror element reflects the radiation toward an area of ​​the recording medium that is part of the current swath. The current swath is the swath being printed by the scanning print unit. Thus, the ink is irradiated immediately after being deposited on the recording medium. Thus, in the matte mode, the time interval between depositing the ink and irradiating the ink can be relatively short, resulting in a matte image, i.e., an image with a low gloss level.

[0027] In one embodiment, the first mirror element comprises at least a first mirror surface and a second mirror surface, at least one of the first mirror surface and the second mirror surface receiving radiation emitted by the page-wide array.

[0028] The orientation and / or shape of the first mirror surface may be different from the shape and / or orientation of the second mirror surface. As a result, radiation incident on the first mirror surface may have a different reflection direction compared to radiation incident on the second mirror surface. By controlling the relative position of the page-width curing array and the first mirror element, radiation may be received on at least one of the first and second mirror surfaces of the first mirror element. Thus, the reflection direction may be controlled by controlling the relative position of the page-width curing array and the first mirror element.

[0029] In a further embodiment, both the first and second mirror surfaces receive radiation emitted by the page-wide array.

[0030] In an operating mode, preferably a mode other than the gloss mode, both the first and second mirror surfaces can receive radiation. One of the first and second surfaces can reflect radiation toward a second mirror element. The second mirror element can reflect radiation toward an area of ​​the recording medium that is part of the current swath, thereby forming a matte image. The other of the first and second surfaces can reflect radiation toward an area of ​​the recording medium downstream of the scanning print unit. If the area has already received radiation, the radiation reflected onto the area of ​​the recording medium downstream of the scanning print unit can provide an additional radiation dose to that area, thereby improving the level of curing of the ink.

[0031] In a further embodiment, reception of radiation emitted by the pagewide curing array by at least one of the first and second mirror surfaces is controlled by relative translation of the pagewide array with respect to the first mirror element in the z-direction. The z-direction is perpendicular to both the media transport direction and the scanning direction. In operation, there can be at least three relative orientations of the pagewide curing array and the first mirror element. In the first orientation, the relative orientation of the pagewide curing array and the first mirror element is such that the first mirror surface of the first mirror element is irradiated while the second mirror surface of the first mirror element is not irradiated. In the second orientation, the relative orientation of the pagewide curing array and the first mirror element is such that both the first and second mirror surfaces of the first mirror element are irradiated. In a third orientation, the relative orientation of the pagewide curing array and the first mirror element is such that the second mirror surface of the first mirror element is irradiated while the first mirror surface of the first mirror element is not irradiated. The pagewide array may be movable in the z-direction. Alternatively, the first mirror element may be movable in the z-direction. Optionally, both the pagewide array and the first mirror element may be movable in the z-direction.

[0032] In one embodiment, the scanning and printing unit is provided with a shielding element configured to prevent radiation from reaching the scanning and printing unit when operating in the matte mode.

[0033] During printing, the scanning print unit moves back and forth in a scanning direction. During the scanning movement, ink is deposited on the recording medium, thereby forming a portion of the image. This portion of the image is called a swath. When the printer is operated in matte mode, the ink deposited in the swath needs to be irradiated. However, it is undesirable to irradiate the print unit. Irradiating the print unit can cause undesirable effects such as nozzle clogging, which can prevent droplet formation, or even curing of ink on the nozzle plate, which can prevent proper droplet ejection. In this embodiment, a shielding element is provided on the scanning print unit to prevent the print head from being irradiated. The shielding element may optionally be mounted on the scanning print unit. Alternatively, the shielding element need not be mounted on the scanning print unit, but may be moved in the scanning direction during printing to prevent the print unit from being irradiated.

[0034] In a further embodiment, the shielding element has a length extending in the scanning direction, the length of the shielding element being essentially the same as the length of the scanning print unit.

[0035] The shielding elements can prevent the print head from being irradiated and can prevent the radiation from extending beyond the lateral edges of the print unit, allowing it to reach newly deposited ink during printing.

[0036] In one embodiment, the first mirror element has a length extending in the scan direction, the length of the first mirror element being essentially the same as the length of the pagewidth stiffening array.

[0037] If the first mirror element and the pagewide array have essentially the same length, the first mirror element can receive radiation from the pagewide array over the entire length of the mirror and efficiently reflect said radiation. Additionally, the pagewide array can emit radiation that may be reflected by the first mirror element with little or no loss at the side edges.

[0038] In one embodiment, the second mirror element is positioned at a lateral edge of the scanning print unit.

[0039] During operation, the scanning print unit can move back and forth in a scanning direction. During the scanning movement, the print unit can print a swath of an image. The second mirror element can reflect the radiation reflected by the first mirror element in at least one mode, preferably a matte mode. When printing a matte image, the ink deposited on the recording medium is preferably irradiated immediately after deposition. By positioning the second mirror element at a lateral edge of the scanning print unit, the second mirror can reflect radiation toward the swath of the image printed on the recording medium. The print head itself cannot receive the radiation, thereby preventing undesired curing of the ink in or around the print unit. The second mirror element can be mounted on the scanning print head. Alternatively, the second mirror element need not be mounted on the scanning print head, but can be configured to move back and forth in the scanning direction, like the scanning print unit.

[0040] In one embodiment, the second mirror element has two mirror surfaces, a first mirror surface positioned at a first lateral edge of the scanning printing unit and a second mirror surface positioned at a second lateral edge of the scanning printing unit.

[0041] The scanning print unit moves in a reciprocating motion during printing and can print during forward and reverse movements in the scanning direction. In this embodiment, the second mirror element has two mirror surfaces, a first mirror surface positioned at a first lateral edge of the scanning print unit and a second mirror surface positioned at a second lateral edge of the scanning print unit. Both mirror surfaces can reflect radiation during printing, or alternatively, only one of the mirror surfaces can receive radiation.

[0042] By having a first mirror surface positioned at a first lateral edge of the scanning printing unit and a second mirror surface positioned at a second lateral edge of the scanning printing unit, the time between ink deposition and ink irradiation can be the same during forward movement in the scanning direction as during reverse movement in the scanning direction. A constant time interval between ink deposition and ink irradiation can prevent print artifacts such as differential gloss in the print. The second mirror element may be mounted on the scanning printhead. The first and second mirror surfaces may be mounted on the scanning printhead. Alternatively, the first and second mirror surfaces may not be mounted on the scanning printhead, but may be configured to move back and forth in the scanning direction, like the scanning printing unit.

[0043] In one embodiment, the pagewidth curing array comprises a number of individually controllable units, the individually controllable units arranged along a first direction, the individually controllable units configured to emit radiation when operated, the individually controllable units operable in at least two modes, the at least two modes including an Off mode and an On mode, and the individually controllable units are controlled to be in a mode other than the OFF mode when positioned such that radiation emitted by the individually controllable units is reflected towards a second mirror element.

[0044] The page-width curing array may include multiple radiation-emitting units. The radiation-emitting units may be individually controllable. The radiation-emitting elements may be controlled, for example, by controlling the amount of power supplied to each individual radiation-emitting element. The individually controllable units may operate in at least two modes, including an Off mode and an On mode. Each individual radiation-emitting element may be controlled to be in one of at least two modes. Preferably, each individually controllable unit is controlled to be in one of at least two modes, and the mode of a first unit may be the same as or different from the mode of a second unit. In the Off mode, the radiation-emitting unit cannot emit radiation. When a radiation-emitting unit is in the Off mode and no radiation is emitted by that individual radiation-emitting unit, the radiation-emitting unit cannot (locally) induce a polymerization reaction in the ink to pin or cure the ink. In the On mode, the radiation-emitting unit can emit radiation. Optionally, the radiation emission may be operable in three or more modes. Each controllable radiation emitting unit may be individually controlled, and each of the multiple individually controllable modes may be operated independently of each other.

[0045] The individually controllable units are controlled to be in a mode other than the OFF mode when positioned such that radiation emitted by these elements is reflected toward the second mirror element. Thus, the second mirror element can receive radiation emitted by the pagewidth curing array. This radiation may be reflected toward the recording medium to cure the ink. Preferably, the individually controllable units are positioned such that radiation emitted by these elements is not reflected toward the second mirror element and are controlled to be in the OFF mode. The advantage of these is that energy can be saved.

[0046] In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing device, the printing device comprising: · a page-width curing array configured to emit radiation when operated; · Scanning print unit; · Media support for supporting recording media; · a first mirror element configured, in operation, to receive radiation from the pagewidth curing array and to reflect the radiation in a reflection direction, the reflection direction being dependent on an operating mode of the printing device; · a second mirror element configured, in operation, to receive radiation from the first mirror element in at least one operating mode of the printer; a control unit configured to control the printing device so that, in operation, it performs the method according to the invention; Equipped with.

[0047] The printer is therefore configured to carry out the method according to the invention.

[0048] In a further aspect of the present invention, a software product is provided, the software product comprising program code on a non-transitory machine-readable medium, the program code, when loaded into a controller of a printing device comprising at least one printing unit for depositing a radiation curable fluid, a pagewidth curing array, and a control unit, causing the controller to perform a method according to the present invention.

[0049] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings, which are provided for purposes of illustration only and are therefore not intended to limit the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0050] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view of a first example of a printing system according to the present invention in a first printing mode; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a second example printing system according to the present invention in a second printing mode. [Figure 3]FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a control unit of the reproduction system according to FIG. 1 or 2. [Figure 4A] 1 is a schematic side view of a first example of a method according to the invention; [Figure 4B] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of a second example of a method according to the invention. [Figure 4C] FIG. 2 is a further schematic side view of a first example of a method according to the invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a third example of a method according to the invention. [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a fourth example of a method according to the invention. [Figure 6B] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view of a fourth example of a method according to the invention. [Figure 7A] 5 is a schematic side view of a fifth example of a method according to the invention in a first mode of operation. [Figure 7B] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view of a fifth example of a method according to the invention. [Figure 7C] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a fifth example of the method according to the invention in a second mode of operation. [Figure 8A] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a sixth example of a method according to the invention in a first mode of operation. [Figure 8B] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view of a sixth example of a method according to the invention. [Figure 8C] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view of a sixth example of a method according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0051] In the drawings, like reference numbers refer to like elements.

[0052] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals are used throughout the several views to identify the same or similar elements.

[0053] Printing System FIG. 1 illustrates a printing apparatus, also known as a printer. The printing apparatus 1 includes a scanning and printing unit 7 for printing on a recording medium 15. The recording medium 15 in FIG. 1 is a relatively rigid substrate, such as a panel. The recording medium 15 is supplied from a media input unit 14, which may be configured to store a plurality of such print media 15 and supply them to the printer 1. The printer 1 includes a media support 4. The printer 1 may further include transport means for receiving and transporting the recording medium 15 along the scanning and printing unit 7. In FIG. 1, the media support is embodied as an endless belt 4. The endless belt is an endless transport belt 4 supported on a plurality of support rollers 3A, 3B, and 3C. At least one of the support rollers 3A, 3B, and 3C is provided with a drive means for moving the belt 4. Thus, the belt 4 is configured to support and transport the recording medium. Furthermore, one or more of the support rollers 3A, 3B, and 3C may be configured to be moved and / or tilted to adjust and control the lateral position of the belt 4. The scanning and printing unit 7 may be provided with a sensor 8, such as a CCD camera, for identifying the relative position of the belt 4 and / or the recording medium 15. Data from the sensor 8 may be used to control the position of the belt 4 and / or the recording medium 15. The belt 4 may further be provided with through-holes and a suction box connected to a suction source (not shown) so that negative pressure can be applied to the recording medium 15 through the through-holes of the belt 4. The negative pressure tightly holds the recording medium 15 to the belt 4 and prevents displacement of the recording medium 15 relative to the belt 4. This belt 4 retention allows the recording medium 15 to be transported. It will be understood that other suitable transport means, such as rollers or steppers, may alternatively be applied. The recording medium 15 may be transported in steps and / or continuously. The scanning and printing unit 7 is configured to translate along the first guide beam 6 in a scanning direction, which is perpendicular to the direction in which the print medium is transported by the belt 4.The scanning and printing unit 7 carries a plurality of printheads (not shown) configured to jet a plurality of different marking materials (different color inks, primers, coatings, etc.) onto the recording medium 15. Each marking material for use by the scanning and printing unit 7 is stored in one of a plurality of reservoirs disposed in fluid communication with a respective printhead for the purpose of supplying the marking material to said printhead for printing an image on the recording medium 15.

[0054] The application of marking material, such as radiation-curable ink, from a printing unit occurs according to data provided in each print job. The printing unit may include one or more inkjet printheads. The timing at which droplets of marking material are ejected from the one or more printheads determines their position on the recording medium 15. The timing may be adjusted based on the position of the scanning printing unit 7 along the first guide beam 6. The above-mentioned sensor 8 may be applied thereto to determine the relative position and / or velocity of the scanning printing unit 7 with respect to the recording medium 15. Based on the data from the sensor 8, the timing of the ejection of the marking material may be adjusted.

[0055] As the marking material is ejected, some of the marking material may spill and remain on the nozzle surface of the printhead. Marking material present on the nozzle surface adversely affects the ejection of droplets and the placement of these droplets on the recording medium 15. Therefore, it may be advantageous to remove excess marking material from the nozzle surface. Excess marking material may be removed, for example, by wiping with a wiper and / or by application of a suitable surface anti-wetting property, such as provided by a coating.

[0056] The marking materials may require processing to properly fix them onto the print media. Therefore, a fixing unit is provided downstream of the scanning printing unit 7. The fixing unit can emit radiation to facilitate the marking material fixing process. In the example of FIG. 1, the fixing unit is a pagewidth curing array 10. The pagewidth curing array 10 extends in the main scanning direction. The pagewidth curing array does not move in the main scanning direction during operation. The pagewidth array can move in the media transport direction, which is perpendicular to the scanning direction.

[0057] The pagewide curing array 10 is configured to emit radiation of a certain frequency that interacts with the marking material, e.g., UV light in the case of UV-curable inks, in operation. Optionally (not shown), the scanning print unit 7 may be provided with an additional fusing unit on the same carriage that holds the printheads. This additional fusing unit may be used to (partially) cure and / or harden the marking material, either independently of the pagewide curing array 10 or in interaction with the pagewide curing array 10.

[0058] After printing and fusing, the recording medium 15 is transported to a receiving unit (not shown), which may include a take-up roller for winding up the recording medium 15, a receiving tray for supporting sheets of recording medium 15, or a rigid media handler similar to the media input unit 14. Optionally, the receiving unit may include processing means for processing the media 8, 9 after printing, for example, post-processing devices such as a coater, folder, cutter, or puncher.

[0059] The printing device 1 further comprises a user interface 11 for receiving and, optionally, manipulating print jobs. The local user interface unit 11 is integrated into the print engine and may comprise a display unit and a control panel. Alternatively, the control panel may be integrated into the display unit, for example in the form of a touchscreen control panel. The local user interface unit 11 is connected to a control unit 12 connected to the printer 1. The control unit 12, for example a computer, comprises a processor adapted to issue commands to the printer 1, for example to control the printing process. The printer 1 may optionally be connected to a network. The connection to the network may be via a cable or wirelessly. The printer 1 may receive print jobs via the network. Furthermore, optionally, the control unit 12 of the printer 1 may be provided with an input port, such as a USB port, so that print jobs may be sent to the printer 1 via this input port.

[0060] Hybrid Printing System The printer 1 in FIG. 1 is a so-called hybrid printer that can handle both flexible and rigid substrates. In FIG. 1, the printer 1 is operating in a first printing mode, and the printer 1 is configured to transport a rigid substrate, such as a recording medium 15. Such rigid printing media 15 can be panels, such as panels for doors or walls, corrugated media, plates made of plastic or metal, and the like. To handle these rigid printing media 15, the printer 1 in FIG. 1 is configured with a substantially linear transport path from the media input device 14, in which the recording medium 15 moves forward along the scanning printing unit 7 at a substantially constant height. The media input unit 14 and receiving unit are positioned at the level of the media support surface of the belt 14. In FIG. 2, a flexible web media 16 is fed into the printer 1. The web media 16 may be, for example, paper, adhesive printing sheets, coated paper, plastic, or a woven fabric. The web media 16 is fed from an input roller 2A and extends across the belt 4 to a take-up roller 2B, where the web media 16 is rewound. Printer 1 is configured to switch between print modes quickly and efficiently.

[0061] control An embodiment of the control unit 12 is presented in more detail in Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the control unit 12 comprises a central processing unit (CPU) 31, a graphical processor unit (GPU) 32, a random access memory (RAM) 33, a read-only memory (ROM) 34, a network unit 36, an interface unit 37, a hard disk (HD) 35, and an image processing unit 39, such as a raster image processor (RIP). The aforementioned units 31-37 are interconnected through a bus system 38. However, the control unit 12 can also be a distributed control unit.

[0062] The CPU 31 controls the printing system 1 according to a control program stored in the ROM 34 or on the HDD 35 and the local user interface panel 5. The CPU 31 also controls the image processing unit 39 and the GPU 32. The ROM 34 stores programs and data, such as a boot program, a setup program, and various setup data, that are read and executed by the CPU 31. The hard disk 35 is an example of a non-volatile storage unit for storing and saving programs and data that cause the CPU 31 to execute the printing process described later. The hard disk 35 also includes an area for saving data of a print job submitted externally. The programs and data on the HDD 35 are read by the CPU 31 onto the RAM 33 as needed. The RAM 33 has an area for temporarily storing programs and data read by the CPU 31 from the ROM 34 and the HDD 35, and a work area used by the CPU 31 to execute various processes. The interface unit 37 connects the control unit 12 to client devices, such as the scanning device 21, and the printing system 1. The network unit 36 ​​connects the control unit 12 to a network N and is designed to provide communication with workstations (not shown) and with other devices 21 reachable via the network N. The image processing unit 39 may be implemented as a software component running on the operation system of the control unit 12 or as a firmware program embodied in, for example, a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The image processing unit 39 has the functionality to read, interpret, and rasterize print job data. The print job data includes image data to be printed (i.e., fonts and graphics describing the content of the document to be printed or written in a page description language, for example), image processing attributes, and print settings.

[0063] FIG. 4A shows a schematic side view of a first example of a method according to the invention.

[0064] The scanning print unit 7 is arranged to move back and forth in a scanning direction (not shown). The scanning print unit is positioned above the recording medium 16. The recording medium 16 is supported by a media support 4. The recording medium 16 moves in a media transport direction (TD). The media transport direction is also referred to as the transport direction or recording medium transport direction. During printing, the scanning print unit 7 applies ink (not shown) onto the recording medium 16, thereby forming an image swath 25. The image swath 25 is the swath printed by the scanning print unit 7 in the example shown in FIG. 4A. It is referred to as the current swath. After a swath is finished, the recording medium 16 can move in the transport direction TD, and a subsequent swath can be formed. By forming multiple swaths, an image can be formed on the recording medium 16.

[0065] A pagewidth curing array 10 is provided. The pagewidth curing array is configured to emit radiation R during operation. The emitted radiation R is directed toward first mirror elements 20. In the example shown in FIG. 4A, the first mirror elements 20 are planar mirrors. Alternatively, the first mirror elements may have a different shape. The radiation R emitted by the pagewidth curing array 10 is reflected by the first mirror elements 20. In the example shown in FIG. 4A, the radiation is reflected in a direction R′ from the mirror elements toward an area of ​​the first recording medium downstream from the scanning print unit 7 in the transport direction. In the example shown in FIG. 4A, the angle between the radiation R and the reflected radiation R′ is 90°. However, alternatively, if the radiation is reflected toward an area of ​​the recording medium downstream from the scanning print unit 7 in the transport direction, this angle may be larger or smaller. Because the radiation is provided at a position downstream from the scanning print unit 7 in the transport direction, there is a relatively large time interval between applying ink to the recording medium 16 and curing the ink, which may result in a glossy image.

[0066] The first mirror element 20 is rotatable about an axis (not shown) as indicated by arrow 22. By rotating the first mirror element, the reflection direction can be suitably adjusted.

[0067] Furthermore, a second mirror element 21 is provided. In the example shown in Figure 4A, the second mirror element does not receive the radiation reflected by the first mirror element.

[0068] The second mirror element 21 is connected to the pagewide stiffening array 10. Alternatively, the second mirror element 21 may be connected to another part of the printer, such as the printer frame. The connection is depicted schematically by dashed line 23. Optionally, the second mirror element 21 may be movable relative to the pagewide stiffening array 10.

[0069] FIG. 4B shows a schematic side view of a second example of a method according to the present invention. Similar to the first example shown in FIG. 4A, a pagewidth curing array 10, a scanning print unit 7, a first mirror element 20, and a second mirror element 21 are provided. The orientation of the first mirror element 21 differs from that shown in FIG. 4A; the mirror is rotated 90° compared to the example shown in FIG. 4A. In the example shown in FIG. 4B, radiation R emitted by the curing array 10 is reflected toward the second mirror element 21. Thus, in the second example, the reflection direction is from the first mirror element 20 toward the second mirror element 21. The radiation reflected toward the second mirror element 21 is reflected by the second mirror element 21 toward an area of ​​the recording medium that is part of the current swath 25. Because the radiation is provided within the current swath 25, there is a short time interval between applying ink to the recording medium 16 and curing the ink, which can result in a matte image.

[0070] 4C shows a further schematic side view of a first example of a method according to the present invention. The pagewide curing array 10, the scanning print unit 7, the first mirror element 20, and the second mirror element 21 are operably connected to the control unit 12. The pagewide curing array 10, the scanning print unit 7, the first mirror element 20, and the second mirror element 21 may also be operably connected to the control unit 12 in other examples, but this may not be shown in the figure for clarity. The control unit 12 can control the pagewide curing array 10 to emit radiation. The control unit 12 can further control the scanning print unit 7 to move in a reciprocating motion in a scanning direction and eject droplets in a predetermined pattern onto the recording medium 16. Furthermore, the control unit can at least control at least one of the translational and rotational movements of the pagewide array, the first mirror element, and the second mirror element.

[0071] Figure 5 shows a schematic side view of a third example of a method according to the present invention. As in the first and second examples shown in Figures 4A-4C, a pagewidth curing array 10, a scanning print unit 7, a first mirror element 20, and a second mirror element 21 are provided.

[0072] In the example shown in FIG. 5 , the first mirror element 20 is a triangular mirror element with a first mirror surface 20A and a second mirror surface 20B. The pagewide curing array is movable in the Z direction. The reflected direction can be adjusted by adjusting the relative positions of the pagewide curing array 10 and the mirror element 20. In the example shown in FIG. 5 , the pagewide curing array 10 and the first mirror element 20 are positioned so that the radiation R emitted by the curing array 10 is reflected in two directions: a first reflection direction R′ and a second reflection direction R″. The first reflection direction R′ is from the first mirror element 20 toward an area of ​​the recording medium downstream of the scanning print unit 7 in the transport direction. The second reflection direction R″ is from the first mirror element 20 toward the second mirror element 21. The radiation reflected by the second mirror element 21 is further reflected toward an area of ​​the recording medium that is part of the current swath 25. Thus, the ink receives a first dose of radiation immediately after being deposited on the recording medium. At a certain time interval after receiving the first dose, the ink can receive a second dose when it receives radiation reflected in the first reflection direction R'. The second dose of radiation can improve the level of cure of the ink, thereby further reducing or even eliminating any remaining uncured curable material.

[0073] Figure 6A shows a schematic side view of a fourth example of a method according to the present invention. In the fourth example shown in Figure 6, the pagewidth curing array has been moved in the Z direction away from the recording medium relative to the third example shown in Figure 5. The relative positions of the curing array and the first mirror element are such that radiation R emitted by the curing array is directed only toward the second mirror surface 20B of the first mirror element; the first mirror surface 20A is not exposed to the radiation. The radiation R emitted by the curing array 10 is reflected by the second mirror surface 20B towards the second mirror element 21.

[0074] The scanning and printing unit 7 is provided with a shielding element 24. The shielding element can prevent radiation from irradiating the scanning and printing unit 7. The shielding element 24 is connected to the scanning and printing unit 7 as indicated diagrammatically by a dashed line.

[0075] 6B shows a schematic top view of a fourth example of a method according to the present invention. The shielding element 24 has a length extending in the scanning direction SD, and the scanning print unit 7 also has a length extending in the scanning direction SD. The length of the shielding element 24 is the same as the length of the scanning print unit 7 in the scanning direction. The shielding element 24 protects the scanning print unit 7 from receiving radiation. Because the width of the shielding element 7 is the same as the width of the scanning print unit 7, the shielding element 7 can protect the scanning print unit 7 from receiving radiation, but cannot protect newly deposited ink from being irradiated. Optionally (not shown), the shielding element 7 may be movable relative to the scanning print unit 7.

[0076] FIG. 7A shows a schematic side view of a fifth example of a method according to the present invention in a first operating mode. A pagewidth curing array 10, a scanning print unit 7, a first mirror element 20, and a second mirror element 21 are provided. In the method shown in FIG. 7A, the printing apparatus is operated in a first mode. The pagewidth curing array faces the recording medium 16. Radiation R emitted by the curing array 10 is directed toward the first mirror element 20. The radiation R is then reflected by the first mirror element 20 to the second mirror element 21, which then reflects the radiation onto the recording medium. Thus, in the example shown in FIG. 7A, the radiation is reflected onto an area that is part of the recording medium of the current swath. Therefore, the time difference between ink deposition and the exposure of the ink to radiation is short. Therefore, a matte image is formed. Thus, in the first mode, a matte image is formed. In FIG. 7A, a third mirror element 26 is also provided. This third mirror element 26 reflects the radiation reflected by the first mirror element 20.

[0077] FIG. 7B shows a schematic top view of a fifth example of a method according to the present invention. The first mirror element 20 is a page-width mirror. The second mirror 21 is formed by two mirrors 21a and 21b. Each of these two mirrors is located at a side edge of the scanning print unit 7. The third mirror element 26 is positioned downstream of the scanning print unit 7 in the transport direction and is positioned midway between the two mirrors 21a and 21b that form the second mirror element 21. In operation, the third mirror element 26 is configured to reflect radiation reflected by the first mirror element. The third mirror element 26 prevents radiation from irradiating the scanning print unit 7. Furthermore, the third mirror element 26 reflects radiation toward the recording medium, thereby providing the ink with an additional dose of radiation. This additional dose can further improve the ink curing speed.

[0078] 7C shows a schematic side view of a fifth example of the method according to the present invention in a second operating mode. The first mirror element 20 is rotated relative to the situation shown in FIG. 7A. In the situation shown in FIG. 7C, the radiation R emitted by the curing array 10 is directed toward an area of ​​the recording medium 16 located downstream relative to the scanning print unit 7 in the transport direction. Therefore, the time difference between the deposition of the ink and the irradiation of the ink is relatively large. Thus, a glossy image is formed. In the second mode, a glossy image is formed.

[0079] FIG. 8A shows a schematic perspective view of a printing apparatus 1. The printing apparatus 1 includes a scanning print unit 7, a pagewide curing array 10, and a recording medium support 4 that supports a recording medium 16. The printing apparatus 1 further includes a first mirror element 20 and a second mirror element 21. The first mirror element 20 is configured to receive radiation emitted by the curing array 10 during operation and reflect the radiation to the second mirror element 21. The second mirror element 21 can reflect the radiation toward an area of ​​the recording medium. In the example shown in FIG. 8A, this area of ​​the recording medium is part of the current swath 25. The second mirror element 21 includes two mirror surfaces 21a, 21b, as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C. The width of the mirror surfaces 21a, 21b in the scanning direction is smaller than the width of the pagewide curing array 10 in the scanning direction SD. During a printing operation, the scanning print unit 7 moves back and forth in the scanning direction. At a particular time, the scanning print unit 7 is at a particular position X. When the scanning print unit 7 moves in the scanning direction, the position X changes over time.

[0080] In FIG. 8B , the scanning print unit and the mirror surfaces 21a, 21b of the second mirror element are at a first position X1 along the scanning direction. The pagewidth curing array has eight individually controllable units 10A-10-H. The individually controllable units 10-A-10-H can be individually controlled to be in an On mode or an Off mode. Optionally, additional operating modes may be available for the individually controllable units 10-A-10-H. The individually controllable units 10-D, 10-E, and 10-F are controlled to be in an On mode and emit radiation reflected by the first mirror element 20 to the second mirror element 21. The other individually controllable units 10-A, 10-B, 10-C, 10-G, and 10-H are controlled to be in an Off mode and do not emit radiation. If they did emit radiation, this radiation would not reach the second mirror element 21. Therefore, this radiation will not irradiate the ink being deposited by the printhead in the current swath 25. Therefore, individually controllable units 10-A, 10-B, 10-C, 10-G, and 10-H are controlled to be in the Off mode.

[0081] In FIG. 8C, the scanning print unit and the mirror surfaces 21a, 21b of the second mirror element are at position X2 along the scanning direction. Position X2 is different from position X1 shown in FIG. 8B. The individually controllable units 10-F-10-H are controlled to be in the On mode and emit radiation reflected by the first mirror element 20 onto the second mirror element 21. The other individually controllable units 10-A-10-E are controlled to be in the Off mode and do not emit radiation. If they did emit radiation, this radiation would not reach the second mirror element 21. Therefore, this radiation would not irradiate the ink in the current swath 25 deposited by the printhead 7. Therefore, the individually controllable units 10-A-10-E are controlled to be in the Off mode. By selectively switching the individually controllable units Off and On, the ink deposited on the recording medium 16 can be appropriately irradiated to cure the ink without wasting energy by emitting radiation that may not contribute to curing the ink in the desired locations on the recording medium.

[0082] Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Accordingly, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to variously utilize the present invention in connection with a substantial and appropriately detailed structure. In particular, features presented and described in separate dependent claims may be applied in combination, and any combination of such claims is hereby disclosed. Furthermore, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting; rather, they are intended to provide an understandable description of the present invention. The terms "a" or "an," as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term "plurality," as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term "another," as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more than a third. The terms "comprise" and / or "have," as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term coupled, as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly.

Claims

1. 1. A method for operating a printing device, the printing being operable in a plurality of modes, the printing device comprising: a pagewidth curing array configured to emit radiation when activated; - Scanning print unit, a media support for supporting a recording medium; a first mirror element configured, in operation, to receive radiation from the pagewidth curing array and to reflect the radiation in a reflective direction, the reflective direction being dependent on an operational mode of the printing device; a second mirror element configured, in operation, to receive radiation from the first mirror element in at least one of the printer's operating modes; The method comprises: determining an operating mode of the printer, the printer being operable in at least a gloss mode and a matte mode; controlling a scanning print unit to deposit radiation curable ink onto the recording medium; controlling a pagewidth curing array to emit radiation; controlling the first mirror elements and the second mirror elements based on the determined operating mode of the printer to selectively receive and reflect radiation by controlling translational and / or rotational movement of at least one of the page-width array, the first mirror elements, and the second mirror elements. A method comprising:

2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein in gloss mode the reflection direction is from the first mirror element in the recording medium transport direction towards an area of ​​the recording medium positioned downstream of the scanning print unit.

3. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein in the matte mode, the reflection direction is from the first mirror element to the second mirror element, and radiation received by the second mirror element is reflected toward an area of ​​the recording medium that is part of the current swath.

4. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the first mirror element comprises at least a first mirror surface and a second mirror surface, and at least one of the first mirror surface and the second mirror surface receives radiation emitted by the page-wide array.

5. The method of claim 4 , wherein both the first and second mirror surfaces receive radiation emitted by the page-wide array.

6. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein reception of radiation emitted by the pagewide array by at least one of the first mirror surface and the second mirror surface is controlled by relative translation of the pagewide array with respect to the first mirror element in the z direction.

7. 7. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the scanning and printing unit is provided with a shielding element, the shielding element being configured to prevent radiation from reaching the scanning and printing unit when operating in the matte mode.

8. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the shielding element has a length extending in the scanning direction, the length of the shielding element being essentially the same as the length of the scanning print unit.

9. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the first mirror element has a length extending in the scanning direction, the length of the first mirror element being essentially the same as the length of the page-wide array.

10. 10. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second mirror element is positioned at a lateral edge of the scanning print unit.

11. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the second mirror element comprises two mirror surfaces, a first mirror surface being positioned at a first lateral edge of the scanning printing unit and a second mirror surface being positioned at a second lateral edge of the scanning printing unit.

12. 12. The method of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the pagewidth curing array comprises a number of individually controllable units, the individually controllable units arranged along a first direction, the individually controllable units configured to emit radiation when operated, the individually controllable units operable in at least two modes, the at least two modes comprising an Off mode and an On mode, and the individually controllable units are controlled to be in a mode other than the Off mode when positioned such that radiation emitted by these elements is reflected towards the second mirror element.

13. a pagewidth curing array configured to emit radiation when activated; - Scanning print unit, a media support for supporting a recording medium; a first mirror element configured, in operation, to receive radiation from the pagewidth curing array and to reflect the radiation in a reflective direction, the reflective direction being dependent on an operational mode of the printing device; a second mirror element configured, in operation, to receive radiation from the first mirror element in at least one of the printer's operating modes; a control unit configured to control the printing device so that, in operation, it performs the method according to any one of claims 1 to 12; A printing device comprising:

14. 13. A software product comprising program code on a non-transitory machine-readable medium, the program code, when loaded into a controller of a printing device comprising at least one printing unit for depositing a radiation curable fluid, a pagewidth curing array, and a control unit, causing the controller to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 12.

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